On September 17, India observes Hyderabad Liberation Day, recognizing the courage of individuals who facilitated Hyderabad’s integration into India. This day marks the event in 1948 when Hyderabad officially became part of India. The necessity for this arose after India’s independence in 1947, as the Nizam of Hyderabad was reluctant to join the Indian Union. In response, the Indian Army launched Operation Polo in September 1948, a military action that concluded the Nizam’s reign. The Razakars, a militant faction, opposed Hyderabad’s accession to India. Operation Polo effectively neutralized their efforts and restored peace. The former Hyderabad State encompassed regions now known as Telangana, Maharashtra, and Karnataka.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah shared a tribute on social media, honoring the sacrifices of the martyrs. He stated, ‘On #HyderabadLiberationDay, I commemorate the unwavering patriotism of the people from the former Hyderabad region, including Telangana, Karnataka, and Marathwada. They endured severe oppression to free our homeland from the Nizam and Razakars, striving for a unified India. I pay homage to the martyrs whose bravery continues to motivate us and whose aspirations propel our nation towards progress.’